Dear FAST/ROP Recipients,

You are all aware that 2003 funding for the Federal and State Technology Partnership (FAST) and Rural Outreach Program (ROP) was eliminated last Friday. Through contacts made with Capitol Hill staff, the Small Business Technology Coalition, and other sources, we are attempting to determine an action plan to reinstate funding for both programs. We do know that in order for funding to be reinstated, every FAST and ROP recipient will need to to participate in a campaign to notify members of Congress. To that extent, it will be important to include client activities and outcomes and how FAST and ROP have contributed to states' economic development in the creation and retention of high paying, quality jobs. We will also need to stress the importance of SBIR funding and its ability to fund technology solutions for the Department of Defense and Homeland Security Agency. We will be back to you soon with a proposed ac tion plan, sample letters, and members of Congress to contact. In the interim, please share any information among the recipients.

As the Communications Chair of the State SBIR/STTR Network, there will be an opportunity to discuss this issue as well as other issues facing the SBIR/STTR programs at the Albuquerque State SBIR/STTR Network meeting. To my knowledge, only one person has registered. If you are unable to attend, please provide us with your concerns regarding this issue as well as others. Our goal is to work collaboratively, speak with one voice, and bring positive closure to this issue as well as others! A chat line will be posted on the SBIR Gateway website: www.zyn.com.

Pat Dillon
State SBIR/STTR Network
Communications Chair

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